The Hendersonville Family YMCA, 810 6th Ave. W. is hosting a lifeguard certification course. This course will teach lifeguard candidates the skills and knowledge needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies.

Course content and activities prepare candidates to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, and prevent drowning and injuries. The course will also help participants develop skills and experience that will be valued by colleges and future employers, who look for applicants who can deal effectively with people, have a take charge attitude and are willing to work to develop new skills.

After completing the course, participants will be certified in lifeguarding, first aid, and CPR/AED for lifeguards. Registration ends Dec. 20.

The cost is $200 for non-members and $185 for YMCA members. Call 828-692-5774 for more information.

Blue Ridge health agency gets grant

Blue Ridge Community Health Services Inc., at 89 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville, has received an $11,000 grant through the Janirve Legacy Fund of The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina and the Transylvania Endowment to purchase medical and dental equipment for the organization's new site, the Brevard Health Center in Brevard.

<p>Toys for Tots drive Friday, Saturday</p><p>A Toys for Tots toy drive will be held from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday in the parking lot of Triangle Stop, Chimney Rock Highway at Highland Square Mall, Hendersonville.</p><p>Everyone who donates toys will be entered in a drawing for a three-night stay in the presidential suite at the Renaissance Hotel in Asheville, and a car rental.</p><p>Local restaurants have also donated meals for the event. Call 828-290-2625 for more information.</p><p>Arts Council plans Cuba tour </p><p>The Arts Council of Henderson County has partnered with AAA Vacations to offer a 10-day trip to Cuba from March 19-28.</p><p>The itinerary reveals Cuba's vibrant culture and lively traditions as well as its lush rural landscape. It will allow travelers to experience the Cuban people with an emphasis on its artists. </p><p>Contact Cindy L. Perry at AAA Vacations at 828-697-8778 ext. 15211 or email clperry@mailaaa.com for more information.</p><p>Y offers lifeguard certification </p><p>The Hendersonville Family YMCA, 810 6th Ave. W. is hosting a lifeguard certification course. This course will teach lifeguard candidates the skills and knowledge needed to prevent and respond to aquatic emergencies. </p><p>Course content and activities prepare candidates to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies, and prevent drowning and injuries. The course will also help participants develop skills and experience that will be valued by colleges and future employers, who look for applicants who can deal effectively with people, have a take charge attitude and are willing to work to develop new skills.</p><p>After completing the course, participants will be certified in lifeguarding, first aid, and CPR/AED for lifeguards. Registration ends Dec. 20.</p><p>The cost is $200 for non-members and $185 for YMCA members. Call 828-692-5774 for more information.</p><p>Blue Ridge health agency gets grant</p><p>Blue Ridge Community Health Services Inc., at 89 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville, has received an $11,000 grant through the Janirve Legacy Fund of The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina and the Transylvania Endowment to purchase medical and dental equipment for the organization's new site, the Brevard Health Center in Brevard. </p><p>The center offers medical, dental, nutrition, behavioral health and discount pharmacy services. It recently underwent extensive renovations.</p><p>Call 828-692-4289 ext. 2509 or visit www.brchs.com for more information.</p>